Old Park Star owner praises Henderson in wake of Supreme victory
Gordon Hall said that moving his horses to Nicky Henderson has been “a breath of fresh air” after Old Park Star maintained his unbeaten record over hurdles with victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.
Last summer, Hall and his wife Su decided to take all their horses out of Paul Nicholls’ Ditcheat yard, and several of their high-profile performers – including Old Park Star – were sent to the six-time champion trainer.
No explanation as to why the move came about has been given, with Nicholls also never being told, but the Halls have been delighted by results following the switch, and Old Park Star is their first Cheltenham Festival winner.
The owners also sent Act Of Innocence, who runs in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle on Wednesday, to Henderson and Gordon Hall said: “It’s been a breath of fresh air and we’ve had some success. We’re very happy and we’re very hopeful of more to come.
“This is a horse who has come along and Nicky’s unveiled him, as well as Act Of Innocence, and realised the talent. Hopefully we’re going to have a long, fruitful career with them.”
The pre-race nerves for Hall kicked in a few days ago, but his retained faith in Old Park Star’s ability ensured he made his way to Cheltenham with plenty of confidence.
He said: “He’s a lovely horse and has a big future. He’ll be a chaser and could be a bit of a star. Everything’s gone right, but on the way to these things you have to keep these horses right and sound, and that’s important.
“A few Jamesons helped me get to sleep last night. We had five or six drinks before, but I’ll probably get a few more in me. We’ve got a nice horse in Act Of Innocence running tomorrow and I think he’s being slightly overlooked in the market.”
Hall added: “It’s lovely, isn’t it? Look at everyone here enjoying themselves. We’ve got to keep this sport going. Winning is just the icing on the cake.”
When asked what will be next for his newest star, Hall said: “It’s a decision with Nicky, and not just us. He’s a chaser, so hopefully he comes out of this okay and it’s a brilliant start to a young horse’s career.”
